Universal Church of the Kingdom of God Under Investigation for Alleged Money Laundering

The Universal Church of the Kingdom of God, a religious organization active in multiple Argentine provinces, faces a judicial investigation for alleged money laundering. The case originated in 2020 when its highest-ranking official, Ricardo Alberto Cis, attempted to purchase a radio station but failed to provide proof of the funds’ origin. This led to a broader inquiry into the organization’s financial practices.

Investigations revealed millions of donations since 2010, including contributions from individuals receiving the Universal Assignment for Son (AUH), a government social welfare program. The organization’s leader provided an unusual explanation for these funds, which raised further suspicion among investigators. The lack of documentation for these assets prompted a deeper examination of the church’s financial records.

The Financial Information Unit (FIU) analyzed the donations and found that in 2010, 45 individuals deposited $4 million. The contributions continued to grow, with 26 people donating $160 million between 2012 and 2013. One of the donors was a beneficiary of the AUH. Between 2010 and 2014, the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God raised $260 million, with the total amount increasing over the years.

The organization currently holds seven properties in Buenos Aires, 14 in the province, and additional properties nationwide. It also possesses 186 vehicles and a Cessna 750 plane, with an estimated $5 million in assets. The Universal Church of the Kingdom of God has not responded to media inquiries regarding these findings.

The case initially proceeded in the Arroyo Salgado courthouse but was transferred to the economic criminal court due to a conflict of jurisdiction. Judge Diego Amarante, at the request of prosecutor Emilio Guerberoff, will investigate 13 individuals. Among those required to declare their assets are the church’s president, Maria Idineo Oracz de Assis, and other high-ranking officials, including Ramon Raitelli, Douglas Alexander Alves Coutinho, and Carlos Alberto Souza Magalhae. The investigation is scheduled to proceed on August 30.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)